We recently connected with Gail Gerbig and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Gail, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
It’s important to remain true to yourself and as they say, be your own kind of beautiful. Sometimes, it’s the things that make you different that also make you unforgettable.
I will often hear from folks that they were able to find me in a crowd because of my hair. My lion’s mane. I am just me … with my curly hair, librarian-style glasses, and a vein that pops out in the middle of my forehead when I smile a lot.
I love capturing moments in life and sharing my journey with family and friends. Now the tables have turned … the camera is capturing me in those moments. I don’t fit the mold of your typical influencer. Maybe that’s why some people are drawn to me … and some aren’t. That’s ok. Those are not my people. Learning to be ok with that is a process that is learned over time.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a mental health therapist by day … and a content creator by night.
I love helping others find beauty in those little moments. During the day, I emotionally support my clients at Seaside Mental Wellness beginning a journey of emotional well-being through online therapy and life coach services. During the evening and weekends, you can find me with my husband playing pickleball, visiting a local market, pop-up shop, restaurant, or at the beach with our family + friends …
As a growing influencer, Eat Drink Find Beauty provides quality content to highlight beauty everywhere as I capture the ultimate Florida coastal lifestyle … which includes local + quality restaurants, food + drink companies, hotel + vacation experiences, boat+ cruise ship companies, beauty + skin care products, spa companies, self-care services + products, boutiques, fashion + apparel companies, home decor + architectural design companies.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along my journey is to embrace who I am, why I stand out, and create my own vision. My vision is different from others. And that’s a positive thing.
Second, consistency is the key. Remain true to yourself. Don’t sell your soul for more followers. My hope for Eat Drink Find Beauty is to be considered kind, consistent, quality, and an authentic creative style.
Third, find like-minded people that encourage individuality, provide emotional support, and are also open to working together as a team. It’s so very important to create a path that defines you and also encourages others to find beauty everywhere. Even in the simplest of things, there is beauty. Highlight it. Bring it to life.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Everyone gets overwhelmed. Even therapists. You’ll often hear me saying “even therapists need therapists”. Self-care is key. Take that time to relax, reflect, and reset. It doesn’t have to be a spa day. Although, let’s be honest, they are wonderful! It can be something as simple as sitting on your porch drinking coffee, going for a walk in the park, or listening to your favorite music. These small activities will help reset your mindset and your day.
When it comes to feeling overwhelmed by social media, it’s ok to take a break. The important thing is to remain true to yourself, your heart, and your goal. The quality of your work will ultimately tell your story. And that’s why we are here. To tell our story. Thank you for listening to mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.eatdrinkfindbeauty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eatdrinkfindbeauty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatdrinkfindbeauty/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/gailgerbig
- Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/eatdrinkfindbeauty/
- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eatdrinkfindbeauty
- Personal Website: www.gailgerbig.com